Bullish Nancy shows no fear of dismissal but the Parkhead faithful display wrath after defeat.
The under-pressure manager stated he was not afraid of losing his job, claiming, “The team is very near to things turning around,” even after edging perilously close to the exit with a heavy setback against Rangers.
Another Capitulation Leads to Derby Defeat
Celtic were in front Rangers at the break but a disastrous second period enabled the Gers to pull level on points with the defending Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was hired from Columbus Crew, has now presided over six defeats in his last eight matches.
“The board and I are united at the club,” insisted Nancy.
Pressed on his own future, he said: “I don’t think about it. I concentrate on finding ways to aid my players to excel on the fine details.
Protest On Display
Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – aimed at the hierarchy – in their hundreds at Parkhead. Club directors are thought to be considering to return to the former boss, who enjoyed a successful caretaker period before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. But in stating this is the reality, I am not saying that I am pessimistic. Not at all. The message is we are really close, extremely close to reverse our form.”
“Really, Really Close”
The coach highlights the fact the side show good levels for one half at a time. In fact, if not for missed chances they could have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we missed a second goal,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I must remain balanced.
“The level we had at certain moments was of top quality. That is a fact. I wouldn't say that if it was not the case. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I noted we've seen this before. That’s why I said that we are really close to getting it right. Right now: the fine margins.”
“I saw many, many good things that we did, once more. However comes down to consistency. My outlook would change the same. This is why I am a big believer we will manage to fix this.”
The Rangers Boss Response
Danny Röhl was cautious about a serious challenge in spite of what seemed like a huge result. “One match at a time, so we can really build up something here,” he said. “The belief in the team is excellent.”
